Book Review: Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas

Dreaming of You by Lisa KleypasSeries: The Gamblers of Craven’s #2Published: 1994Genre: Historical RomanceFormat: PaperbackPages: 373Source: PurchasedDates Read: February 12-16, 2019Grade: A-Synopsis: In the shelter of her country cottage, Sara Fielding puts pen to paper to create dreams. But curiosity has enticed the prim, well-bred gentlewoman out of her safe haven—and into Derek Craven’s dangerous world.

A handsome, tough and tenacious Cockney, he rose from poverty to become lord of London’s most exclusive gambling house—a struggle that has left Derek Craven fabulously wealthy, but hardened and suspicious. And now duty demands he allow Sara Fielding into his world—with her impeccable manners and her infuriating innocence. But here, in a perilous shadow-realm of ever-shifting fortunes, even a proper “mouse” can be transformed into a breathtaking enchantress—and a world-weary gambler can be shaken to his cynical core by the power of passion…and the promise of love. (from Goodreads)

REVIEW

The love between Sara and Derek is so sweet. While I did have some reservations about their first night together, I have to remember this was written in the early ’90s. There were a few noes Derek brushed off simply because Sara was ignorant — I don’t care. If someone says no because they don’t understand, explain it to them; don’t force or scare them. Aside from that leaving a slightly bitter taste in my mouth, this was a very enjoyable story.

I loved the contrast of Derek’s being a bastard with everyone except Sara, Lily, and Alex. He’s such a broody sweetheart. There’s something about someone who appears so rough, intimidating, and unapproachable on the outside being so sweet, loving, and caring on the inside — especially when that someone thinks they are incapable of being loved. No one is incapable of being loved, Derek, least of all you.

And I loved Sara from the first moment we meet her, taking notes in the rookery. She’s a bit shy, but she also knows when to speak her mind — I find that very admirable. There’s a bravery in that, one that can only be understood by those who have experienced that kind of fear and anxiety. And she wears spectacles! There should be more heroes and heroines wearing glasses in historical romance. I hereby petition all the authors.

I guess I should address the elephant in the room, Perry. If anyone told me to give up writing, I’d kick them to the curb immediately. If anyone tells you to give up something you love, that feeds your soul, because it makes them uncomfortable or insecure…bye, Felicia.

Favorite Quotes:

“A long time ago I learned not to explain things to people. It misleads them into thinking they’re entitled to know everything I do.” (34)

“Life makes people what they are.” (243)

Honesty was too much a part of Sara’s nature for her to keep her feelings hidden. Although it might result in disaster, she had no choice but to lay her heart before him. (251)

It had not been wrong to love him, nor had it been wrong to tell him so. A sophiticated woman might have played her hand more cleverly, but Sara knew little about games. It was best to be open and giving…and if her love wasn’t returned, at least she couldn’t be faulted for cowardice. (257)

“I’ll just muddle throug all of this, and carry on. And someday with the grace of God…I might be strong enough to love someone else.” (258)

“I don’t know how ‘happy’ feels.” He sought her mouth for a brief, hard kiss, and his voice turned to rough velvet. “But I know I want to stay inside you forever.” (288)

Separately, they had different strengths. Together they were complete. (305)

“Sometimes,” he whispered, “I’m so deep inside you I can feel your womb…and I’m still not close enough. I want to share every breath…every beat of your heart.” (322)